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NSP returns - 3 Dying vision - 5 ▲ Burning desire - 6 GOOD NEWS Life-changer - 8 FOR & Easter 2015: FREE Words of faith - 12 Norwich Bishop leads call to engage in politics

■ The Bishop of Norwich has led a nationwide engage in the political process ahead of the have more influence than I had thought. While call for church-goers to get involved in politics General Election and to put aside self-interest bishops may not be as attractive as Russell Brand ahead of the May 7 General Election, to put aside and vote for 'the common good': "The privileges of we can urge members of our Church to regard self-interest and to vote for 'the common good'. living in a democracy mean that we should use politics as immensely worthwhile and a way to The House of Bishops of the Church of our votes thoughtfully, prayerfully and with the create a better society." England expressed the hope for political parties good of others in mind not just our own interests." The letter states: "In Britain, we have become to discern "a fresh moral vision of the kind of The Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Revd Graham so used to believing that self-interest drives every country we want to be" ahead of the election. James, said: "This pastoral letter isn't addressed decision, that it takes a leap of imagination to In a pastoral letter from the House of Bishops to politicians but to members of the Church of argue that there should be stronger institutions for to the people and of the . It encourages them to use their vote those we disagree with as well as for those 'on England, the Bishops urge Christians to consider and get involved in politics, since even within the our side.' Breaking free of self-interest and wel- the question how can we "build the kind of society Church we sense a growing disengagement. coming our opponents as well as our supporters which many people say they want but which is not "Just recently a Foodbank volunteer told me into a messy, noisy, yet rich and creative commu- yet being expressed in the vision of any parties?" she had given up on politics and one of our youth nity of communities is, perhaps, the only way we Rev David Austin. The letter also encourages church members to leaders said he wouldn't vote. Russell Brand may will enrich our almost-moribund political culture." David set to take Norfolk High Sheriff over at St Luke’s ■ NORWICH: The new vicar for St Luke's, St Augustine's and C3 church in New Catton, Norwich, has been named as Rev David Austin, a former homeless and mental health outreach worker. David, who is currently a curate at St Peter's, is a real champion Addingham near Bradford, will be moving to Norwich in June. David spent a year in Birmingham with the High Sheriff of provide decent standards of City Mission learning about Urban Evangelism accommodation for military - door-to-door witness, preaching in the Bullring Norfolk, Lady Pippa families visiting their injured and handing out tracts, selling Bibles in the Dannatt, has used loved ones. market and running Children's Bible clubs. The The Dannatts worship at mission also ran a traditional soup kitchen and her 12 months in the their village church in hostel for homeless men. "It was here that I got my first experience of ceremonial office to Keswick, South Norfolk, and homeless work and this led me to spending 20 champion a cause have always felt it right to years in Manchester and East London as an belong to their local church in Outreach & Care Manager for the homeless very close to her the village where Lady and those with psychiatric needs," said David. heart - that of mental Dannatt was born. ■ Nicky Gumbel, the David spent three years with a Missionary Of her own Christian faith, pioneer of the Alpha Society (YWAM) in London, Mexico and health. Helen Baldry Liverpool and three years as a Community she says: "Faith matures, Course, which has seen Member of the Anglican Franciscans (Society reports. and perhaps one becomes over 20 million people increasingly aware of the of St Francis) in East London, whilst testing out find out about the his vocation. He also did a two-year diploma at things that are really, really Christian faith across the London Bible College in the mid 1980s. arried to the former important. I've become more 169 nations, will speak "For me, the essence of Christianity is head of the British accepting of other people just at the Big Alpha Supper 'renewed humanity' through the God-Man Army Lord, Richard as they are. near Norwich on Jesus Christ. Wherever people are seeking to M October 2. Dannatt, Pippa is a trained "Actually, all that matters at renew themselves by loving their neighbours ??????? counsellor - she has worked for the end of the day is love. It and being true to what they know of God, I sounds so simplistic, doesn't it, believe healing and transformation can occur. 18 years for Relate and with a “I believe we have the potential 'In Christ' to number of GP surgeries. but what a different place the world would be if we only repair our broken lives and broken communities Mental health problems are when Heaven breaks through to Earth and something she is very used to truly loved our neighbour - God's will is seen on Earth as in Heaven," said being around, and experienced whoever, and wherever he or David. "We need to work for the advancement herself with postnatal she might be - as ourselves." of God's Kingdom and not just restrict depression after the birth of Pippa, who first met future ourselves to living within the Church." two of her four children. She husband Richard while David studied theology at St John's encourages people to be studying for a theology degree (Cranmer Hall) Durham in 2009-2011 and the training included practical placements in a high honest about mental health at Durham University, raised her family at various army security prison and a summer placement in the issues. "The more people talk Durban townships in South Africa. about it the less scary, less of a bases around the world, taboo there is." following her husband's career A highlight of Lady right to the pinnacle of the Dannatt's year as High Sheriff - British Army. In fact, the Election hustings traditionally the Queen's family moved 24 times in 34 representative for law years. She described moving ■ NORWICH: Transforming Norwich will enforcement - has been around as 'tough' but also said, be staging the traditional General Election meeting the unsung heroes "being an army wife makes hustings events for local Parliamentary of the voluntary sector, you very independent", this is candidates in two city churches leading up to particularly the number of evident in the way she and her the May 7 poll. women and their selfless husband undertake their own The hustings for candidates in the Norwich North constituency will be at Norwich Central commitment to other people. roles and projects. Baptist Church on April 16 and the one for Pippa was made an MBE in Lady Dannatt is part of the Gurney family, whose Norfolk Norwich South will be at Holy Trinity church on 2013 for her work with SSAFA, April 29. More details will be confirmed nearer in particular spearheading a history stretches back ■ The High Sheriff of Norfolk, Lady Pippa Dannatt. Picture by Julia Holland. the time. All are welcome.. £5m fundraising drive to story continues on page 4 2 Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Easter 2015 www.networknorfolk.co.uk NEWS GOOD NEWS The profound truth of the Easter story FOR NORWICH & NORFOLK ■ Traditionally for Christians, the run-up to friends where so initially overwhelmed by the ■ Rev Good News for Norwich & Norfolk is Easter - Lent - is the time when we examine situation that engulfed their friend that their published by Celebrate Norwich & Norfolk. ourselves, maybe even deny ourselves a little, Suzanne response was to sit with him in silence for seven Registered charity no 1141245. ■ create some time and space and use that Cooke days. Suffice it to say that there are many who Website: www.networknorfolk.co.uk space to grow closer to God. For some it’s a can understand and sympathise with Fry’s anger ■ Editorial (01508) 488318. e-mail stories to Priest-in- penitential time, a time when we look more and dismay. I’ve heard it said that we are an [email protected] or send closely at how we fall short of who God would Charge “Easter people”. But what might that mean to copy to Pear Tree Farmhouse, have us aspire to be. someone that believes they have no reason to Road, Wreningham, Norwich NR16 1AT. Upper Tas It’s an inescapable fact that as priests in the believe in the healing power of Christ? What, in ■ Advertising: Helen Baldry (01603) 926120 Valley Church of England many people, rightly, have the face of such innocent suffering, does our ■ Distribution: Les Champion (01603) 402310 Benefice ■ Editor and designer: Keith Morris high expectations of who they think we are, of Christian faith have to offer us, to offer them? ■ Regular writers: Kevin Gotts, Mike who I am. And I often wonder if people, I believe the essence of our Christian story Wiltshire, Sandie Shirley, Helen Baldry, Les optimistically, expect us to have some kind of lies in the profound truth that we create beauty, Champion. constant hotline to God, an overwhelmingly a despair that I think is often echoed in and by transformation and wholeness out of death, ■ Printed by Archant Print. close and transformational relationship with the people we encounter in our lives. brokenness and despair. We are an Easter ■ Churches, Christian organisations and Christ and the ability to serenely pray our way I have been struck recently by Stephen Fry’s people! We are a people who believe that hope individuals from within Norwich and Norfolk are through the ups and downs of life’s rocky road. outburst on the Gaye Burne show, when he was resides even in the most hopeless of situations, invited to send news, events and pictures which Well, let me let you all into a little secret - life for asked why he was an atheist and what he would even in the deepest pits of despair. And this is relate to the demonstration of the Gospel in social us too can become overwhelming and the God say to God if he met him at the Pearly Gates. because in our darkest moments we can choose action, community care and evangelism generally. we love and have committed our lives to, can His anger at God struck a cord with me as I to turn to the face of Christ and know that the This will not only encourage those Christians seem silent and a long way off. thought that his words gave a voice to many in inescapable pain of being human can become involved in similar activities but also inform leaders In my benefice this Lent we’ve been thinking modern society, who either have no relationship the very moment we are transformed, the very in other churches who are contemplating similar about Job and the more time I spend getting to or time for God or those who feel they don’t moment we come closest to the God who loves forms of outreach. know this book the more I realise I have a deserve the hand they have been dealt and us unconditionally, the very moment we can be certain empathy for how Job felt. For I can’t help watch those ‘less deserving’, thrive and breeze overcome by the healing, loving power of God ■ The deadline for material for the Celebrate but feel compassion with Job as he struggles along, enjoying an easy life. through Jesus Christ. edition is Friday May 1. Distribution is from with loving God – understanding and We have all encountered people whose life I cannot presume to change the minds and Thursday May 21. appreciating how great God is and yet feeling has taken them to dark places and who feel hearts of those who may have heard these abandoned and angry with the situation he finds themselves justified, as Job did, in feeling words many times before. But I have an ■ While every care has been taken in compiling himself in. We have no idea what the timescale despair and anger at God, who feel abandoned honest faith in the truth and power of God’s this publication and the statements contained of the book is, it may be that Job was in this by all that is good in our world. Stephen Fry, in transformational love, and I can only hope that within are believed to be correct, the publishers dark, dark place for a very long time – it’s no his interview, was particularly angry at why my life might witness to this one overwhelmingly cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies. wonder that he felt the deepest sense of despair, children should suffer with bone cancer. Job’s wonderful fact. Reproduction of any part of this publication without permission is strictly forbidden. But please ask as we are usually happy to oblige for a credit line in non-commercial situations. Genesis doubles Donna Myall, Paula and Val Dodsworth outside one of the House capacity of Genesis homes. Norfolk Christian project the the death of her husband Bill. Fifteen years on, The project is unique in the way they will the team of staff and volunteers has grown. take anybody who needs help. No other House of Genesis has just Val describes them as "Wonderful, innovative hostels will take children or dogs. Project opened a second house in and go-ahead staff". They are guided by a leader, Donna Myall, said: "We took in a Norwich doubling its capacity team of Christian trustees who have overseen young lad and his dog who wouldn't be the project since 2005. separated and had been living in a tent locally. to provide supported The House of Genesis is run as a home for We supported them until they were able to accommodation for vulnerable single homeless men. The accommodation is move on from us." usually needed for between 6 and 12 months The team is excited about plans to open a men in the city. Helen Baldry and is a stop-gap while the men find their feet father and child unit. reports. again. Some of the residents are ex-offenders The house on Road is preparing looking for a fresh start. Some are homeless, for its first residents and Donna said, "I am often due to a breakdown in a relationship. looking forward to getting my teeth into our he acquisition of the house on Dereham Most residents are aged between early 20s and new project and home, and to being able to Road in Norwich, which previously early 40s help many more lads as they re-start their dis- T was standing empty, means that The Principles of basic respect are adhered to rupted life journeys." House of Genesis' now has 12 rooms available. and there is a no alcohol and no drug policy, If you would like a speaker from The House The existing property on Laundry Close in making this a real opportunity for change. of Genesis to come to your church or Thorpe has been recently extended with a new "Those things make us different; the lads feel organisation, please contact Val on external room and a converted garage. The very chilled here - they are wonderful lads," [email protected] new house is a four-bedroom end terrace and said Paula, one of the House of Genesis volun- If you are interested in volunteering at the will be in operation from March. teers. There are no locks on the doors and the Dereham Road house, please email The House of Genesis was founded by Val house has a real family feel - with Bertie the [email protected] or ring 01603 Dodsworth who started the project from her bulldog curled up on the office floor, a part of 435449. house in in 2000 a few years after the family! www.thehouseofgenesis.org

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Norfolk Christian news website marks its tenth anniversary

■ The Network Norwich & Norfolk website is set to mark a decade of serving the local Christian community this year and has a number of initiatives planned to celebrate the achievement including news features, media training events and a first-ever Norfolk Christian Digital Communications Awards. The website, which provides a news and information service for the Christian community across Norfolk, was launched in October 2005, backed by Transforming Norwich and local Christian charity Dreams & Visions. Launch editor Keith Morris is still at the helm, now as publisher, and has been joined over the years by other team members, who now include senior content editor Helen Baldry and regional content editors Tony Rothe and Andy Latham. Countless volunteers have contributed articles and opinion columns to the site, which has been backed by numerous local Christian organizations, charities and Above, the Bishop of Norwich dedicates volunteers for Norwich Street Partnership and below, chair of trustees Rev Deb Cousins. churches for whom the website helps provide a vital communica- tions channel. Service marks return Over the past ten years the site has published over 3,000 news articles, over 1,000 stories for its partner to streets of Norwich organisations and around 400 opinion columns. It has also published hundreds of job and volunteer opportunities, church and project directory entries, A new beginning in the special on the streets of our adverts for local businesses and Christian organizations ministry of Norwich Street county. It marks a and thousands of diary dates. new chapter, a new It has also won several national Christian media Partnership was marked with a beginning, for NSP awards. service of re-dedication by the as an ecumenical Keith said: “To mark the anniversary, we will be Christian organisa- publishing a monthly archive news column looking back Bishop of Norwich at St tion. It is also a at some of the biggest stories over the past ten years. Stephens Church in the city on hopeful and encour- “We will also be holding a couple of training events for aging sign to the our supporters and readers, giving them the opportunity February 19 after an absence of wider church that, to learn about digital communications, writing news sto- more than one year. Keith energised by the ries and press releases and the secrets of social media. Morris reports. power the Holy Spirit, “To round off the year, we also plan to stage a first-ever the Christ light is Norfolk Christian Digital Communications Awards when being taken out to the we will invite entries from across the county and give all edicating around 20 volunteer street streets again." of our readers the opportunity to vote of which websites, partners and prayer partners, the Rt During the service blogs and social media channels should be recognised,” D Rev Graham James said: three long-standing said Keith. "Never underestimate the power of kindness. team members gave There will be offering a limited number of opportunities God's kindness should lead us to repentance, their own personal for local Christian organizations or churches to sponsor kindness can transform and, I believe, can experiences of being part of the awards and if you are interested, please email convert. We are more likely to be brought to out on the streets or Keith Morris at [email protected] faith in Christ by kindness that by arguments, as part of the prayer www.networknorfolk.co.uk no matter how theologically correct. I wonder team. how many of us have been shaped in our faith Peter Gosling said: by kindness more than we have by sermons. "We often feel the presence of God in our NSP is in the business of kindness. interactions on the streets. For me it has helped "I am very glad that you are back on the me to look at the city in a different way and streets of Norwich, being kind and caring for there is a lot of warmth and respect on the Kevin Cobbold Funeral Services those who are disorientated, desperate or streets for the street partners." disorderly is hugely challenging. How can we, Andy Driver said: "We have lots of people who were bought by grace, refuse to reach out from different denominations working together 01603 528800 07789 586817 to those who are in need? What you are doing is and it is a privilege sitting there and praying not simply social work, it is true Gospel work with them." and a symbol of the unconditional friendship of John Pennington said: "Jesus asks us to be Christian funeral director God." with the marginalized in our society. Life on the Chair of Trustees, Rev Deb Cousins, said: streets is both very superficial and also one of Independent, affordable and personal Although our teams returned to the streets of the loneliest places there is." Norwich just before Christmas, we wanted to The teams are back on the streets once every ask God to seal all that he has done in the past, two weeks at present but are planning to Home visits, Full quotations, Funeral Plans, Memorials and to bless our future ministry alongside other increase the frequency. agencies in the night-time economy. If you are interested in getting involved, 104-106 Sprowston Road, Norwich, NR3 4QW "This service is the culmination of over a would like further information about Norfolk year of heart search, prayer, hard work and Street Partnership, or would like someone to commitment from everyone involved in NSP to give a talk about its work to your group, please www.cobboldfunerals.co.uk get to this point in our journey when we can contact: Rev Deb Cousins at [email protected] or resume our active ministry as churches together on 01603 738329 or visit www.nspuk.org. [email protected] 4 Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Easter 2015 www.networknorfolk.co.uk NEWS

Norwich Bible Conference 2015

■ NORWICH: This year’s Norwich Anglican Bible Conference is hosted by Holy Trinity Church in Norwich on Saturday June 6, looking at the book of Haggai, and will be led by Paul Perkin, part of the leadership team of the New Wine Network for the London & South-East Region, and of the Holy Trinity Brompton network, is on the Council of Reform and chairs the Fellowship of Confessing Anglicans in the UK and Ireland. The Conference is being held at Holy Trinity Church, Trinity Street, Norwich and following registration and coffee from 9.30 the day starts at 10am with four sessions on the book of Haggai; finishing at 4pm with regular coffee breaks, lunch break and times of prayer and praise throughout the day. The cost for the day is £14, including a light lunch. Details from Rev Martin Young 01603 498821 or http://nabconf.wordpress.com/ Giving thanks for Norfolk Sheriff is a real champion Who Cares? mission ■ story continues from front page he Who Cares? mission has seen 60 An evening of thanksgiving for the top five 'hurts'. Challenging topics were generations and has Quaker roots. Her house churches come together across Norfolk the Who Cares? mission was covered, such as immigration. The church in Keswick has always been her home and T in a mission that began by simply asking started regular activities, including a men's she is very fond of the area. Pippa loves the local people to share 'what hurts the most'. held on February 7. Special group. People came to faith through these Norfolk coastline and spending time with her They received around 20,000 responses to their guest Sandy Millar spoke about events, including Daniel, who spoke at the large family - including six grandsons and one-question survey. thanksgiving evening of his experience of four great-nephews. The thanksgiving evening was held at St the unanimity of spirit needed to becoming a Christian after being invited to the A particular place of sanctuary for her is Thomas' Church in Norwich and was well continue the work. Helen Baldry church. "I felt I belonged there. I knew without , where she is inspired by attended by people from Norfolk churches any shadow of a doubt that I wanted to become the centuries of prayer: "It's just amazing; the which have been involved in the mission, as reports. a Christian - and I did so that night." joys, and the hopes and the sorrows; every- well as some of the Newday young people who Special guest for the thanksgiving evening thing that building has seen and encapsu- helped to complete the survey. was Sandy Millar, previously the vicar at Holy lates; every brick breathes it," she says. Rob Tervet, project leader, thanked God for Trinity Brompton the birthplace of the Alpha The appointment as High Sheriff of all the churches that caught the vision. Rob Course, The Marriage Course, and one of the Norfolk is something of a family tradition - explained how every person responds their local areas. largest Anglican churches in the country. Lady Dannatt's father and grandfather both differently to the question and a common Norwich Youth For Christ (NYFC) surveyed Sandy said that unity is a God-given thing held the role - and as her own year as High response is that people think it's great that the 4,000 school children and the topics of bullying, and that unanimity of spirit comes from doing Sheriff comes to a close, Lady Dannatt is church is asking this question. Many people relationship problems and death were raised. what Jesus came to do. "Christians tend to determined to continue her work in the area have been moved, and many have received By way of response, an anti-bullying project has define themselves on what they believe. Non- of mental health. prayer. One person was taken aback by the been launched and a remembrance service for Christians define us by what we do." She is also incredibly proud of the work of questions and said, "I didn't know that pupils and their families to help deal with their Sandy spoke of church planting and her eldest son, Tom who devotes much of his anybody cared." Some churches knocked on grief is planned. Who Cares? has opened the equipping the next generation to reach the time and resources to helping street children every single door in their community to ask the doors to schools where previously NYFC has people around them with the love of Jesus. in Sierra Leone and Liberia. Tom, who question. no access. He said, "It takes a radical church to reach a founded the charity Street Child in 2008, is Following the listening phase, the largest Stuart Bailey, from South Park Evangelical radically lost world." yet another member of this high-profile single Alpha supper ever in the UK was held at Church, spoke about Who Cares from a church The emphasis of the evening was to thank family who has a remarkable strength and the Norfolk Showground with 1,400 people perspective. He described the concept as a God for what has been done, although the Who ability to demonstrate their love for people in attending. Hundreds of events, activities and perfect way to reach out to the local estate of Cares? leadership team were clear that this isn't practical ways. new ideas have happened as a result of local 1,000 people. The church held a holiday club the end of the mission and are seeking what the churches responding to the concerns raised in and they also held discussion events to address next steps are. NEWS Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Easter 2015 5 Appeal to help fulfil Jo’s dying MP prayer card vision

Norwich church-goer o, a developmental came across a Colin Grey is studies graduate from verse in Proverbs J UEA, died in January, 10:9 which reads: appealing to aged 37, from non-Hodgkin "He who walks Christians across lymphoma, 15 months after purely walks Norfolk to help him undergoing a successful kidney securely, but he transplant from her mother who walks in fulfil the dying vision Janice at Addenbrooke's crooked ways will of his wife Joanne, to Hospital near Cambridge. be found out." Above, Colin and Jo Grey and, below left, one of the cross-stitched prayer cards. produce hand-stitched Last August, Jo suffered It was about the five years she spent literally complete them herself and it accompany the cards saying prayer cards for from leg and back pain and time of the MPs' expenses hundreds of hours carefully really inspired her," said Colin. who Jo was, how she battled following an MRI scan was scandal and Jo felt God give stitching 731 cards. For her "Her dying wish was that with her illnesses and the pur- every single MP and admitted to the Norfolk and her a vision to send prayer they were a work of art and of they are all completed and pose of the cards," said Colin. member of the House Norwich University Hospital cards with the first part of the prayer. She was even stitching delivered. It would be wonder- I don't know how I could of Lords. Keith Morris for treatment and non-Hodgkin verse - He who walks purely in hospital just two days before ful if her death could mobilize have coped and supported Jo lymphoma was diagnosed. walks securely - on them to reports. she died. and inspire a network of peo- without my Christian faith," he Following treatment, Jo was every single MP and member "Jo felt very strongly that this ple to do something practical said. "I think I may have just able to return home briefly for of the House of Lords. There was a task that God has given and prayerful for our country." given up. My faith and the Christmas Day but died in are currently around 650 MPs her to do and was her way of It takes two to three hours to support of my friends from hospital on January 17. and 790 Lords. expressing support for our complete each cross-stitch church and Christian groups The couple attended New In 2009, Jo wrote down her nation and Parliament and that which is then inserted into a has been a real strength to me. Hope Christian Centre in vision. She wrote: "It was the prayer was vital in this," said pre-printed card holder. One or "Jo's faith and belief helped Lakenham, Norwich, where first part of the verse that Colin. "The idea is that people two of Jo's friends have already her in her physical battles and Jo's memorial service was held caught my attention, and as I pray for the MPs and lords, taken up the mantle and Call motivated her to continue on February 9. read it, the Lord dropped into Parliament and our nation to Prayer in Norwich is stitching the prayer cards right Five years ago, Jo was my Spirit a very simple cross while they are stitching." supporting the project. up until she died." reading David Stern's stitch design with the idea to And now Colin is appealing Hilda Gordon, from Call to If you want to support Colin Complete Jewish Bible and turn it into cards to be sent to for support from anyone who Prayer, who also helps to run and get involved with the every member of the House of can help complete Jo's legacy an all-party Parliamentary effort to finish the cards and Commons and the House of and see her vision fulfilled. prayer group in the House of see them delivered then you Lords. It struck me that this "Hundreds of hours of Commons, has offered to help can find out more at phrase was a fantastic sound labour and prayer have already get the cards distributed once call2prayer.co.uk/ppcards/ or bite that could strike a chord gone into them and Jo's great- they are complete. email Colin at with those who would receive est wish was that she could "I will write a letter to [email protected] it, as modern politics seems to be full of slogans and clever words. The wording for the inside of the cards will read 'May True Wisdom guide you in all that you do'. "From the time I first received this vision it has been clear that I am to include as many people as possible in it, and therefore am looking for people who will catch this vision, and have the skills and time to get involved in this with me." Colin, who works as an IT tutor in Norwich, said: "The cards are not meant as a criticism but really are saying to MPs that people are supporting you and praying for you." Jo was a huge cross-stitch 20th - 24th April, 2015 - Mini Individually Guided Retreat. Residential to be held at enthusiast and over the last Lavinia House. Numbers limited to 8 so book early to avoid disappointment £220 6 Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Easter 2015 FEATURE

Maureen Bond preparing lunch. Burning desire for

Norwich is one of he vision for Burn local churches. House of Prayer and bigger 20 UK cities where Norwich specifically, A typical Burn is 4 to 24 events like Celebrate Norwich T came out of a 3-day hours long, and consists of to worship Jesus for 4, 6, 12 Christians are worship festival called what is called 'vertical and 24 hours. 'David's Tent'. JJ Waters, one worship' as the focus is “We invite worship-leaders expressing of the organisers of Burn entirely on ministering to from different churches in the themselves in Norwich, explained: "We God, and the first and greatest city to come together as one, launched in September 2012 commandment to "Love the to seek the presence of God "Burns" consisting with an incredible 12 hours of Lord your God with all your together. Sometimes there is a of 12 to 100 hours worship in a tent in a field! heart and with all your soul focus on intercession, other of non-stop worship “The hunger for more of and with all your mind" (Matt times we do street outreach, God was evident as people 22:37, Mark 12:30). and sometimes we simply and prayer at least encountered Him in new "Burn 24-7 is a movement of worship Jesus because after once a month. ways, in the thick presence people gathering to pursue the all, He is worthy. of God many were healed, Presence of God, see unity "We value prophetic Kevin Gotts delivered, and even baptised build and the transformation worship and create a space for reports. in the sea the next day!" of our cities and regions," musicians to release creative, The Burn started in 2006 explains JJ. spontaneous and prophetic out of spontaneous, all-night "We have been seeing songs over the city. We worship nights at Oral Roberts glimpses of this in Norwich. sometimes send teams out University in Tulsa, For nearly two and a half during or after the Burn to Maureen’s work is Oklahoma. The grassroots years now, we have been share the love of Jesus on the Pictured below is JJ worship, prayer and mission meeting monthly in different streets," says JJ. Waters leading a movement soon spread to a locations across the city "In one recent 24-hour Burn honoured by Queen Burn in Norwich. local coffee shop and then to partnering with churches, the at 'The Beacon' (St Elizabeth's) on the Earlham estate in Norwich, six young people ■ Maureen Bond founded a to the club. She not only uses her came in off the streets during cooking skills, but also organises luncheon club in a Norwich the Burn and gave their lives regular activities for members of the church 30 years ago and was to Jesus, and we heard there club to take part in each week, awarded a BEM in the Queen's was breakthrough in the New Year Honours List in including talks, music and outings. Her involvement requires a lot of time church after that," said JJ. January for her services to the and energy but Maureen is commit- "At the last Burn in club and her local community. ted to the community that has built February, a man came in who Helen Baldry reports. up around the club over the years. "I had severe chronic back pain absolutely love what I do," she said. since a child. During the ■ Maureen founded the club at Many local residents use the worship, he felt to pray for Dereham Road Baptist Church in service, which is made possible by healing, and was totally 1985 and it is now based at Chapel Maureen and a team of other volun- healed! Field Methodist Church. It offers teers from the Christian community. “He has been free of pain elderly people the opportunity to Most members of the lunch club since, praise Jesus. We know enjoy home-cooked food and live in the local neighbourhood and when God shows up, anything companionship. are referrals from Social Services, is possible so are believing for The club has grown over the years enabling Maureen and her team to even greater things (John and has been described as a 'hub of have a vital impact on people who 14:12)! might otherwise be lonely and laughter' and is greatly appreciated "Last month we stood in isolated. by around 50 people who attend faith for one lady whose Maureen said, "It's nice to think every Monday to socialise and enjoy friends desperately needed a nutritious meal. that my work has been recognised rain in a particular part of Maureen was awarded the British but the award is for everyone, it's not Kenya. Stepping into our Empire Medal (BEM) for her services just for me." authority in Christ (Luke 10:19, Mark 4:39) we prayed, and the next day we heard Janet bids farewell to Norwich news that rain had come. “At other Burns people ■ NORWICH: Former pub landlady and social worker Rev Janet Wyer left her post as associate priest at St Peter Mancroft in Norwich city centre after five years on March 15 after being appointed as rector of the Kessingland Benefice near . After being a landlady of a village pub for 11 years and a social worker Janet’s calling to ordained ministry came after reading about a long- Adrian Plass mov serving woman verger at Norwich Cathedral. The next day Janet saw a job-share advert for a verger at St Peter ■ Mancroft, which she got. Janet was also appointed in 2004 as a youth Christian humourist and Well-known speaker and author, worker where she inspired many with her energy and ideas. It was this role writer Adrian Plass Adrian, was so impressed by the which prompted Janet to start exploring her calling to ordained ministry. is set to back the pioneering work of John and Krystyna Piercy that he has offered In 2007, Janet left St Peter Mancroft to take up her curacy at the Chet pioneering work of two Valley Benefice which serves in parishes of Chedgrave, Hales, Hardley, to present a special evening to Heckingham, Langley, Loddon and Sisland in Norfolk. Norwich teachers, who support their remarkable ministry of Janet returned to St Peter Mancroft in 2010 with many ideas and plenty have made 26 mission mercy. of energy. During her time Janet set up the very popular St Peter’s trips to aid destitute Over the past few years, Norwich Playtime & St Peter’s Praise in which children are invited to participate in people in Eastern maths teacher John and his Polish worship and discover who Jesus is with messy crafts and worship. Europe, by appearing at wife, Krystyna, a gifted linguist, have Janet also oversaw the running of a toddlers group called Noah’s Ark a special evening event made regular overland journeys - and Church Without Walls which gives people an opportunity to engage 3,600 miles round trip each time - to with Jesus in an informal setting. in Norwich on May 20. deliver urgently needed medical sup- All of this complimented her work as a trustee of Celebrate Norfolk, Mike Wiltshire reports. plies to destitute, disabled and aged chair of trustees for Churches Together in Central Norwich and her work survivors of the Hungarian Holocaust. with Transforming Norwich. John and Krystyna, who speaks Janet was asked to lead prayers for the city’s Christmas lights switch on five languages, first met as trainee and other civic ceremonies within the city. She was also chaplain to YMCA teachers at King's College, London. Norfolk and the All Saints Centre. John and Krystyna Piercy. As Christians, they felt led to do FEATURE Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Easter 2015 7

WANT TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS OR SERVICE TO THE NORFOLK CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY? Ring Helen Baldry on 01603 926120 non-stop worship or e-mail [email protected] Cards ‘n’ Things 193 Reepham Road, Hellesdon, Norwich (on the Bull Roundabout) Tel: 01603 485832

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latest news

■ LOWESTOFT: Burn Lowestoft launched on March 7, with Burn Global leader Jamie Dickson leading the event.

■ NORWICH: Norwich Roy Godwin of Ffald-y-Brenin, a real father of the prayer movement, will be joining the Burn on Friday April 17, sharing testimonies of what God is doing.

■ FURTHER INFORMATION: www.facebook.com/BurnNorwich or email: [email protected]

have come in and been so them a format that draws releases encounter with the 'Unity of the Holy Spirit' touched by God that they younger people. It is a prayer Father's love. We have seen an across the many churches have given their lives to form for our pick and mix increase in intimacy with from which people have been Jesus." culture which I welcome," Him and the revelation and drawn… I personally believe The movement has caught said Rev Madeline Light, St healing which flows out of the Lord is using the 24/7 the attention of a number of Stephen's Norwich. prioritising relationship with 'Burns' across the nation to Norfolk church leaders: "I love the vision and Jesus above all else," said Rev prepare for a move of God," "The Burn brings together a passion behind Burn to see Stephen Mawditt, at the said David Cairns of host of different traditional churches come together in a Fountain Network, Ashill. Heartbeat Ministries ways of praying and gives way which glorifies God and "They have been building a Norwich. ed by Norwich mercy mission

mission work in Hungary - and a million copies - says he and his wife, discovered "the incredible need" for Bridget, are "very excited about the fun medical supplies among elderly war evening with a serious aim." victims, especially those being helped by The event will take place on May 20 at the Jewish Hospital. To help, John and the Willow Centre, on Willowcroft Road, Krystyna set up the Shalom Habakkuk , Norwich, NR4 7JJ, (7-9pm). Trust. Tickets are £5, (£10 for families), with Seventy years ago, many Jews were free tea and coffee. drowned in the River Danube in the There will be an offering for the work Spring of 1944 - part of a terror of the Trust, and the evening will include campaign in which 500,000 Hungarian special music and a display of painting Jews were killed. by local artist Nigel Carder. "Today, many elderly survivors live in For more details of the Adrian Plass abject poverty, some near to death, evening, call John Piercy on 01603 880 because of lack of food and warmth," Author Adrian Plass. 881 or Paul McHenry at the Living says John, director of the Trust. Adrian, author of 35 books, the most Stones Christian Fellowship, sponsors of "We hope many friends in Norfolk will well-known being the gentle satire, The the event, on 07832 026622. come along to our special evening with Secret Diary of Adrian Plass aged 37 Adrian Plass on May 20," says John. and three-quarters - which has sold over www.shalomhabakkuktrust.org 8 Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Easter 2015 www.networknorfolk.co.uk NEWS

Church dementia project boost

■ Project is a A day centre and friendship club run by a Norwich church’s social action arm has received £115,000 from the National Lottery to help support older people with early onset demen- tia over the next three years. life-changer Lakenham Day Centre and Friendship Club is run by social action charity Community For Paul Bale, who was Action Norwich and based at born without eyes, his the New Hope Christian Centre daily routine at the on Martineau Lane. The £115,000 of Big Lottery award-winning St Fund cash over three years will Michael's Workshop in enable the staff team to create , Norwich, programmes which support older people with early onset has been a life-changing dementia according to Deputy experience. Mike Day Centre Manager, Margaret Wiltshire reports. Wiginton, who is managing the them to live independently and areas, including a personal project. stay in their own home longer. development module, preparing “The activities will help to “Alongside this we will devel- them to access employment.” improve the lives of older op a six-month volunteer place- Anyone interested in the Day aul's mum, Sandra, people with memory difficulties, ment scheme for unemployed Centre or the Volunteering says she is so grateful through Cognitive Stimulation school leavers and those seek- Placement Scheme should for the pioneering Therapy and other activities,” P ing to re-enter the work place contact Community Action workshop project which has she said. “This will support after a gap. They will explore Norwich and speak to given Paul - who was once them and their families to devel- opportunities in health and Georgina or Margaret on withdrawn - "fresh confidence op coping strategies for every social care of older people and 01603 617771 or email . . . and his work has kept him day tasks, with a view to enable receive basic training in related [email protected] happy." For 18 years Paul has loved singing to radio as he and other trainees produce wooden educational products that are sent far and wide - not only across the UK but worldwide. Paul also loves listening to cricket and football commentaries and enjoys "power walking" in his spare time. Paul, aged 45, and the team and staff at St Michael's Workshop have been invited to a Mayoral reception in March, ahead of the workshop's 30th anniversary celebration on Saturday, May 16. Paul Bale working with some of the wooden educational products. Friends past and present - and anyone interested - are Our approach helps them to built workshop in 1993, next welcome to attend the explore their faith through to Bowthorpe Church. celebration day (11am to stories, to enhance their VIP guests, including the 4pm). The well-equipped spiritual experience through Lord Mayor of Norwich will workshop - adjacent to wonder and play." attend the special Saturday Bowthorpe Church, near The workshop's hand-made celebration which will feature Roys store - helps to build wooden products and creative audio-visual displays of the community by teaching skills educational resources are work of the Bowthorpe to people with physical or exported all over the world - Community Trust. The event learning disabilities, and and right now the workshop will be opened by the Rev provides opportunities for is working flat-out to meet Simon Stokes, a blind patron volunteering. orders and build up stocks of the workshop, and a former The workshop is the main for the national 'Godly Play' minister of Bowthorpe Church UK supplier of the acclaimed conference in London this where the current minister is 'Godly Play' materials. The April. the Rev Mark Elvin. founder of Godly Play, Dr The project began in a For more information on Jerome Berryman, says: double garage in 1984, the event, call Sally Simpson "Children have an innate moving to council premises in on 01603 746 106 or email: sense of the presence of God. 1988 and its present purpose- [email protected] Youngsters chance for election debate ■ NORWICH: Young people from across Norfolk Clive Lewis (Labour) and Chloe Smith will be given the chance to put questions direct (Conservatives) will answer questions. to General Election candidates at a special Big Tim Sweeting, Chief Executive of YMCA Election Debate to be held at the Open venue in Norfolk, said: "We hope this will help encourage Norwich on April 15, 6-8pm. young people to be more politically active as The event is a partnership between YMCA they do not tend to vote at the same levels as Norfolk, Map, The Benjamin Foundation, Break other age categories and the aim is that they will and the Open Youth Venue. The free-to-attend feel more engaged and more likely to vote." evening will be chaired by ITV journalist and Free tickets at : http://tinyurl.com/ norfolk- news presenter Jonathan Wills. bigdebate Richard 'Toby' Coke (UKIP), Lesley Grahame Keep up to date with the event (Greens), Norman Lamb (Liberal Democrats), #NorfolkBigDebate NEWS Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Easter 2015 9 Adoption opens new chapter for couple

When former missionaries, Simon Simon and and Tania Davies adopted two Tania Davies. special needs siblings it opened a new chapter of blessing and joy. YMCA Sleep Sandie Shirley reports. Easy supports espite sleepless nights and endless therapy, three-year-old Harley and the homeless D younger sister Daisy are heaven sent. "They inspire love and have expanded our ■ ability to love," says Simon. "We have also seen NORWICH: Over 50 supporters and another side of love from our own teenage residents from YMCA Norfolk braved the children who readily agreed to a new cold to sleep under the stars in Norwich expanding family," says Tania, who trained as a overnight on March 7 to raise money for nursery nurse and has worked with special the Christian charity and its work with needs' children. homeless young people across the county. She explains: "I have always been passionate Groups from St Thomas church, the about children and especially those with special People’s Picnic and Brown & Co estate needs. Three weeks after we married, and agents and the YMCA Life Ready project while working at a nursery, the fostering of two in Yarmouth took part in the event in the little boys broke down and I just wanted to grounds of Norwich High School for Girls. bring them home." Also taking part was Brian Hannah, Eighteen years later the couple are bringing chairman of Norfolk County Council, who new life and hope to two youngsters with said: “The work of the YMCA is quite learning difficulties that few wanted to adopt. incredible. I have seen first hand the work "Most people want the perfect baby to enlarge they do and the facilities they have to take or create their family," says Tania. The couple young people in and give them a step on now want to join with other Christian adoptive to improve their lives.” parents or foster carers in Norfolk for mutual William Armstrong, Sheriff of Norwich, support and to help champion the vision in the said: “We are aiming to raise funds but local church of Christian charity, Home for also raise awareness of a growing problem Good, to see a home for every child who needs that really should scandalise us all - that one. inspirational Christian musician who adopted professional help. The intervening years have there are youngsters in Norwich and The couple's mission of love followed their three Chinese children. "I had been thinking of also been an adventure of faith, preparing us Norfolk who are living rough, without return from Andalusia after six years with the what we could give. We are not very well off so for the uncertainties that lie ahead and I feel shelter and who have been deprived of the Spanish Gospel Mission. Tania was diagnosed we could not give much money but we did God has something special for both of these basic right to a home. This is a matter of and healed from Hodgkin lymphoma - a life- have a family and a bit of space to give a child children. serious injustice and something that we threatening cancer - while overseas and tells of a loving secure home and there are plenty of "A church thanksgiving service was held for should all address and face up to.” a divine encounter while receiving her first children here in the UK that need homes," says Daisy and Harley and we continue to persevere dose of chemotherapy in hospital. school teacher Simon. and take them to Sunday services; it is "I was listening to some worship songs and I The couple began the long and gruelling wonderful to see the joy on everyone's faces Video chance to felt the physical hand of God on my hand adoption process, but after set-backs and when we arrive." because when I opened my eyes there was disappointments their application was fast- Says Simon: "It is not going to be easy but no-one there." tracked with a series of divine connections. God has prepared these children for us and he showcase church Her faith received an immediate boost but Harley was seven months old when he will continue to give us strength and provision ■ Norfolk churches are being offered the the extra challenges finally took their toll on joined the family home and two year-old sister for a walk of faith." chance to participate in an exciting video Simon. Burnt out and depressed from Daisy, who has vision impairment, followed He adds: "We would love to hear from other project in collaboration with Celebrate supporting his wife and caring for their at 10 months. The couple celebrate their Christian adopters and foster carers in Norwich Norwich & Norfolk to help showcase the children while preaching at four Spanish birthdays and adoption days and in January and Norfolk to create a support network, church in action across the county. churches in a difficult spiritual environment, Daisy and Harley met three of their siblings for arrange informal gatherings and discuss ways Following its successful introduction last the couple returned to Norfolk seven years ago. the first time at a union party in Mulbarton. to encourage churches to consider how they year, Celebrate Norfolk, along with experi- Looking to God for the way forward, they Daily therapy and specialist help encourages can support families to get involved in this enced local video producer Adam Jackson, is moved to Mulbarton and joined the church, their development but Tania is unafraid of the important task under the umbrella of Home for offering the opportunity to have a short video finding a community of love and care that challenges: "I have worked with children who Good." made of churches and Christian projects, with helped re-build and re-envision their lives. have autism and cerebral palsy which has Contact Simon at [email protected] or costs from £250. If you are interested contact New direction came after reading about an given me experience and a network for visit: www.homeforgood.org.uk Adam Jackson at [email protected] or visit www.celebratenorfolk.co.uk BRIGHT QUALITY PLUMBING No job too small K.P. ELECTRICS One year warranty on all work FOR ALL YOUR DOMESTIC ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS. Available weekends and evenings NEW ADDITIONS, REPAIRS AND EMERGENCIES. Repairs and upgrades undertaken FAST, FRIENDLY, RELIABLE SERVICE Free estimates. No extra call-out charge Handyman services also available PLEASE PHONE 01603 744208 Please phone Greg Bright MOBILE: 07770 921399 Home: 01603 479216 Mobile: 07814182940 10 Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Easter 2015 www.networknorfolk.co.uk NEWS

Business-woman diary dates Sarah Hart with some of her tiaras

■ Norfolk and Norwich Healing Rooms Training - 10am Saturday 28 March, House of Prayer, St Edmund's Church, Fishergate, Norwich Bring your own lunch. To book place, contact Rev Ray Scorey on 07900 341 287, 01692 584 123 or [email protected]

■ Lent Quiet Day - 10am Saturday 28 March, All Hallows Convent, Belsey Bridge Road, , , . A preparation for Holy Week. This event includes talks and silence to help you reflect on the meaning of the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

■ Saturday Night at the Movies - 6:30pm Saturday 28 March, Lighthouse, 62 Cromer Road, Sheringham. Family friendly event featuring songs from movies old and new. Live band and performers, featuring local young talent. Tickets: £6 per person on the door, £5 if purchased in advance, under 10s free. Contact:Ellen Waite on 01263 825155, or [email protected]

■ Holy Week and Easter retreat - 10am Wednesday 1 April, All Hallows Convent, Belsey Bridge Road, Ditchingham, Bungay, Suffolk Holy Week and Easter. Come for all or part of the time and share in our celebration of the “biggest” week in the Church’s year. Book with Lavinia House on 01986 892840

■ Individual Guided Retreat - 10am Monday 20 April - Friday 24 April, All Hallows Convent, Belsey Bridge Road, Ditchingham, Bungay, Suffolk. During this silent retreat you are helped to take the next step on your spiritual journey under the guidance of a prayer guide. Residential to be held at Lavinia House. Numbers limited to 8, book early to avoid disappointment. Cost £220

■ Art Exhibition at Trimingham - 11:00am 25-26 April, Church of St John the Baptist, Trimingham. Art Exhibition of local artists work, all for sale, free admission. Details from Dot [email protected] or 01263 833249

■ Take Heart - 10am- 4pm, Saturday, 25 April, House of Prayer, Fishergate, Norwich, NR3 1SE. An opportunity to hear about a new project which Release Women is establishing in Egypt to help Christian women. Cost £5, For details contact House of Prayer on 01602 920074, email [email protected]

■ My Yoke is Easy Retreat - 10am Saturday 2 May, All Hallows Convent, Belsey Bridge Road, Ditchingham, Bungay, Suffolk. A day exploring the nature of the burdens we are carrying and ways of coming to God to lay them down

■ Music on a Spring Evening Concert, 7pm Friday 22 May, Heydon Church, off the B1149 Norwich to Holt road, Tickets £7 payable at the Tiaras from the door. Concert given by the “Crickets” a 10-strong mixed ensemble of Sixth form singers from Gresham’s school. Interval wine, soft drinks and finger food included in the ticket price. Funds for restoration of historic organ in the church. creator’s heart he Barnham Broom business- Sarah Hart loves romance was thrilled by hair and creating," woman, who produces hand- and weddings and is says Sarah, who has been in the T made bespoke tiaras for brides, hairdressing industry for 25 years. also invests in people's marriages with passionate about marriage During her early career tragedy husband Alan. after finding love again struck when her two-year marriage When the couple 'tied the knot' ended. Vulnerable and hurting, her Sarah became the answer to Alan's late after heartache and faith took a back seat as she looked for wife's dying wish when she lost her disappointment. Sandie happiness elsewhere. fight against cancer at just 31. "She Shirley reports. "I was in love with the idea of being OPTOMETRISTS & wanted him to marry a good woman in love and I was looking for love and DISPENSING OPTICIANS and have the children that she could a new spouse. Eventually I realised I not give him," says the 41 year-old needed to get my faith back on track who celebrates her tenth wedding constructs intricate wire tiaras with because I could not live without God QUALIFIED ADVICE IN anniversary in July. freshwater pearls and Swarovski and I left my future in his hands," says ALL ASPECTS OF EYE CARE "Marriage is from God and it needs crystals. Each work of art denotes the Sarah who met widower Alan seven to be nurtured and if God is happy bride's personality and wedding theme years later and who has been “a CONTACT LENS CENTRE with the marriage you cannot go and comes in a gift box, explains Sarah healing touch from God with his kind wrong?" says Sarah who has seen her who donated a tiara to last year's and caring ways." creator rebuild her life after divorce Wymondham carnival queen. The couple, who help run a Biblical ALL TYPES OF LENSES INCLUDING "My work is a perfect combination DISPOSABLES FITTED & SUPPLIED with a new life partner and two young marriage course, now live an abundant children. that enables me to be creative and life and since joining Hope "When I focus on the tiaras I make, I have time for Alan and our two young Community Church, Wymondham see God shining through because he children," says Sarah. they have found a new and lasting TEL: NORWICH (01603) 626750 has restored my life and made me She found her Saviour Jesus when identity. shine from when life seemed so bleak." she was just nine and was baptised "My life has burst into bloom and I 19 CASTLE STREET, NORWICH NR2 1PB Sarah launched Hartfelt Tiaras from with her two sisters five years later. soar on the thermals of God's love like www.dippleconway.co.uk home last summer and also makes She grew up with the nurture and love the eagle," says Sarah who is part of fascinators while using her of Christian parents who were farmers. the worship team and prays for hairdressing skills to dress bridal "But as a little girl I had a massive hurting people. hair. Without training, she lovingly delight for weddings and confetti and I www.hartfelttiaras.co.uk NEWS Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Easter 2015 11

Dereham Town Pastors launched

■ DEREHAM: Over 40 representatives of town and district councils, local churches and youth organisations from across Mid Norfolk attended the official launch and signing ceremony for the Dereham Town Pastors initiative on March 4. The culmination of many hours of work and prayer were rewarded at Dereham Baptist Church in a simple yet inspiring and exciting ceremony. Dereham became the first Norfolk town to be affiliated with the Suffolk umbrella organisation Town Pastors. Tim Birt, the Mayor of Dereham, welcomed the formation of the Dereham Town Pastors. The local Police Community Support Officer, speaking on behalf of his senior officers, echoed the Mayor's comments and welcomed the help and co-operation given to the police by the Town Pastors, and being available to young people in their own environment enabled them to seek help and guidance outside of official channels. The initiative started last summer when a group of people from churches in the town met and formed a committee with the aim of bringing Town Pastors to the streets of Dereham and the surrounding villages. Dereham Town Pastors adheres to the core Pictured above are Congolese children singing with instruments. values and code of practice of the Suffolk Town Pastor organisation, but is an entirely separate and independent charitable body. Recruiting for street patrols and prayer teams will commence during March. Patrols act as a positive presence on the streets, to dissuade anti- social behaviour and provide a calming influence Maureen returns to in tense and volatile situations and providing safety and reassurance to school students and local residents. The police have advised that the most benefi- cial times for patrols to go out would be between 4pm and 6pm and 8pm and 10pm on Fridays ini- Congo after 30 years tially. Patrols would include a variety of locations around the town, wherever the young people con- gregate including the town centre, various car parks and the Recreation ground. Maureen Lee, a ome of my former students are now grandparents," says For more details visit Dereham Town Pastors former Christian S Maureen, who taught in the website at: www.derehamtownpastors.org.uk missionary, now in French-speaking nation for 12 years and was known to them as her 70s and living in Mademoiselle Lee. Some students Norfolk, says it was who learned English, called her "a great thrill" to fly 'Miss Lee' - a term so popular that one young couple affectionately back to the named their baby daughter, Democratic 'Misslee'. Armed with insect repellent - and Republic of Congo bearing gifts - Maureen's action- in central Africa packed two-month trip included recently, where she ministry in Congolese prisons and broadcasting in French on radio and worked as a teacher, TV. Highlights of her journey 30 years ago. Mike included seeing the work of Christian evangelists who, with the Wiltshire reports. help of 100 bicycles, have planted 300 village churches. Today Maureen is an active member of Evangelical Church, and a trustee of CAM International (formerly the Central African Mission), founded exactly 100 years ago by UK Pentecostal pioneers, Willie Burton and James Salter. Hundreds of missionaries Former missionary Maureen Lee. followed them, and today there are thousands of Bible-believing Literacy in some areas has gone Maureen, who has long pastoral churches in the DR Congo with backwards and many dedicated experience with the Assemblies of "marvellous opportunities for the teachers are unpaid, just "working God, which has nearly 600 churches Gospel - many people are becoming for love". in the UK, agrees that her optimism Christians," says Maureen, who first Historians estimate that by 2008, and sense of humour has "carried felt God's call to the mission field at 5.4 million people were killed in the her through" many challenges in the age of 13. 'Second Congo War' - mostly by Christian work at home and abroad. However, many areas of the disease and starvation, making it "But the joy of the Lord is our mineral-rich Congo struggle with the deadliest conflict worldwide strength," says Maureen, with a unrest, widespread poverty, since World War Two. smile - adding she "can't rule out corruption and the fall-out of Nevertheless, Christian outreach yet another trip back to central regional wars for many years. today is growing. Africa one day." 12 Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Easter 2015 www.networknorfolk.co.uk NEWS Speaking words of faith in India

A Norfolk church ■ While in India, Simon gave away handmade minister who is just 'holding crosses', all back from a third made in Bowthorpe, to mission trip to India, newly ordained ministers. Simon is an enthusiastic will never forget the patron of St Michael's day when he prayed Workshop which this year for hundreds of celebrates 30 years of pioneer community village people. service. Before moving to Among them was a Sprowston, Simon was mute child who spoke minister of the adjacent Bowthorpe Church. (See for the first time after story on page 8). being prayed for by Rev Canon Simon Stokes - who is registered blind. Mike Wiltshire reports.

his healing incident had a profound effect T on Simon, vicar of Sprowston for the past three years. Simon was exhausted on the day he prayed for hundreds of eager villagers in Tamil Nadu, the populous state in south- east India reknowned for its 34,000 Hindu temples and sacred sites. After sharing the Gospel message several times for up to an hour, and then praying for vast crowds of people for three hours after the services, Simon admits he "really Canon Simon Stokes with guide dog, Hope longed for a cup of tea" - and was startled when his inter- above deck to work on a over even the most reluctant preter assured him that the yard-arm; running numerous readers. once-mute child who had not marathons and completing a Simon and his wife, spoken before, was now leg of the Olympic Torch relay Christine, a teacher, have three speaking. in Norwich city centre. children: James, 23, and just "It certainly wasn't my faith. Very recently he was on a engaged; Matthew 21, and I can't boast about it," says two-week walk and camping Mary, 19. Simon. "I was humbled and trip with a friend round the Simon's adventures have at out of my comfort zone. blustery North Norfolk coast - times "pushed him to the People there in rural India "that put me right out of my limit", though as a deeply are just so expectant that comfort zone!" admits Simon. spiritual man he says he is something will happen when His other incredible beginning to accept the you pray. achievements have included limitations of sight-loss "and “In those villages, it's often missionary work in Nepal, embracing what God is using a 'life or death' thing . . . if Namibia and India, and that [disability] for." God does not intervene in a serving as a minister of three Simon hopes to run the miraculous way, who will?" different parishes and a Beachy Head marathon again "Because I can't see, I was member of the General Synod. this year to help raise £6,000 to completely reliant on the 'Hope', his third guide dog, build a strategically-located translator to tell me what was is also a lively national Christian church - in a needy happening - you never knew celebrity at the age of two- area of Tamil Nadu. who was coming forward for and-a-half, having been "We've bought the land after prayer." featured on the cover of the three years, and are now ready Simon, 52, who is on a Christmas guide dogs' to build. From the first time I well-earned sabbatical break, fundraising campaign. went to India six years ago, I is known for his many Simon's former faithful just fell in love with the remarkable adventures, guide dog, the very intuitive Christian work there," he said. despite being registered blind 'Tigger', is still part of the The new church project since he was 24. Even as a family but doesn't like being supported by Simon is one of child of five his eye-sight was retired, says Simon. five new churches in Tamil failing - but he went on to However, Tigger "literally Nadu which are being become an accountant and has goes to school once a week", supported by Christians in two university degrees. offering "Tigger Time" to East Anglia. His adventures for charity Bowthorpe children who Readers who would like to include jumping out of a benefit from reading to her "as support the project can call plane; sailing as a bosun's a non-critical friend" - thus Simon on 01603 411194 or mate on a tall ship across the boosting the children's reading email him at: Atlantic, climbing 130 feet confidence. Tigger wins [email protected] Printed by Archant Print, Thorpe Print Centre, Norwich